ACT New Zealand is today pleased to announce ACT’s new Party President – former MP and Minister Hon John Boscawen.

Mr Boscawen will take over the role from outgoing Party President Chris Simmons who has held the position since 2010. Mr Simmons nominated Mr Boscawen for the role and John was successfully elected unopposed to the position of Party President for a two year term commencing February 22 2013.

“I don’t doubt that the task I am undertaking is a difficult one, but I believe the ACT Party has an important role to play in Parliament,” ACT Party President-Elect John Boscawen said.

“ACT was founded to provide opportunity to those who don’t have opportunity and choice to those who don’t have choice. Since 1996 we have stood on behalf of all New Zealanders for freedom of choice without excessive government interference and for personal responsibility; we have made major contributions in Parliament to this cause.

“I believe it is vitally important that ACT is successful in 2014 and returns to Parliament in greater numbers. I will be doing all I can to make that happen,” Mr Boscawen said.

Mr Boscawen acknowledged the significant contribution Chris Simmons has made in his time as Party President.

“Chris has steered the party through some of its most difficult times and has recently led the work to re-establish the party’s direction. Chris has done an outstanding job and on behalf of the ACT Party, I would like to thank him for his commitment and hard work.”

Outgoing President Chris Simmons says it has been a privilege to serve as President of ACT and he is excited about the party’s future.

“ACT is committed to being the champion for those people who wish to get on and be successful in how they raise their families, manage the environment, and grow businesses that operate in the future ‘global village’,” Mr Simmons said.

"Future generations deserve the very best that we can give them. New Zealanders today need to know that our country’s leaders have the vision and courage to position the economy for future greatness. We’ve led the world on many fronts before and we can do it again with the right approach and can-do spirit. ACT will be outlining its vision at our annual conference on Saturday, February 23rd.”

ENDS

John Boscawen will make his first address as Party President at ACT’s Annual Conference, February 23 2013, Gibbs Farm, SH 16 Kaukapakapa, North Auckland. Click here for more info